An Award-winning filmmaker...

Brian Spitz was a student and employee at the Riekes Center in the 1990’s. Along with coworkers Beau Perry and Jason Ward he created the orientation video “Lesson Zero" in 1997, which is viewed by new students at the Riekes Center to this day.

Since then, Brian has grown into an Award-winning filmmaker, and has worked with a range of the top production companies including Fox, Disney, Comedy Central, and Sony. He has worked as a Director with well know actors and media personalities including Emma Stone, Rob Schneider, Bradley Cooper, Bill Burr, Slash, and Rainn Wilson. Brian has also produced and directed his own documentaries, including Unhung Hero (2013), and Psycho Family (2017). This year Brian won the award for Best Documentary at the September 2017 Streamy Awards, YouTube’s version of the Academy Awards. Brian recently collaborated with the Ridgway software company to create a storytelling application called “Storyfire”, which started trending within 36 hours of its launch. Brian’s last 15 years have been a wondrous expedition into film and TV, from Hollywood productions to software creation. These experiences reflect his eclectic roots as a highly creative student, mentor and employee at the Riekes Center.

Brian’s generosity matches his talent. He stays connected to the Riekes Center, serving as a mentor whenever called on to help out. He has sung in recitals, mentored students, and helped out with Riekes Center business development and strategy. Brian was a featured speaker and Master of Ceremonies at the 2016 Rally for Riekes Scholarship Fundraiser.